JULY 03, 2026
This is the weekly newsletter of the Metro DC Democratic Socialists of America (MDC DSA), which is produced by local members of the chapter’s Publications Working Group. The Weekly Update publishes every Friday at 9am. Ready to fight the Trumpocalypse? Join DSA, fight to win with a real alternative!
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CONTENTS
UP FRONT
Socialist congressional bench expands following Colorado primary win
Trump to celebrate 250 wasted years in July 4th celebration
Tipped workers in DC see first base wage increase in two years; Montgomery County minimum wage also increases
Socialist congressional bench expands following Colorado primary win
Radical centrists camped out in the middle of the Democratic Party have suffered another week of political panic. The source of uppercrusty bewilderment: a reenergized working-class movement that has swelled decisively behind the ideology and avatars of democratic socialism.
In Colorado, Melat Kiros ousted a “progressive-except-for-Palestine” congressional rep in Colorado’s 1st Congressional District. The district, which encompasses Denver, swung clearly for the 29-year old progressive, ousting a nearly 30-year incumbent. This victory builds on the emboldened slate of democratic socialists expected to head into Congress next year, anticipated to be the strongest socialist congressional slate in US history. The nationwide explosion of support for socialism presents a new opportunity for the masses seeking rejuvenation of America’s broken socio-economic system.
Victories continue as democratic socialists are not done battling through the Democratic Party just yet. In Missouri, St. Louis DSA is backing nurse and pastor Cori Bush in a fight for Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. Meanwhile, down in Florida, National DSA is backing Oliver Larkin in the state’s 25th Congressional District. Larkin, who joined Metro DC DSA during the George Floyd Uprisings, is in a pitched battle against machine operative Jared Moskowitz, who backed Trump’s expansion of ICE powers and has become a defender of Israel’s genocide against the people of Palestine.
Readers can review the scope of the socialists’ electoral ambitions this year — along with fights yet to come up and down the ballot — by reviewing the National DSA’s 2026 Election Night tracking system.
Trump to celebrate 250 wasted years in July 4th celebration
Donald Trump’s presidential tenure is one of fascistic terror and disastrous failure, marked by lost wars, a broken economy, and a government in chaos. Following the mass revulsion his obtuse administration has awakened across the country, Trump has retreated once again into the caverns of the White House, reshaping and conflagrating DC’s monuments and federal buildings in downtown Washington’s imperial district in another naked maneuver to force his memory into the aesthetics and architecture of DC. While much of Washington remains blanketed in construction debris, Hermetic Don has called for another ill-conceived celebration, this one meant to commemorate the flailing American Empire’s 250th anniversary.
The celebration on the Mall is set to be a perfect encapsulation of 250 squandered years. Trump’s poorly planned party — “The Great American State Fair” — has proven to be a pathetic bust: A frequently broken ferris wheel, $27 hamburgers, melted ice cream, empty stalls, tacky T-shirts, and empty audiences have defined this sad spectacle. Never one to be upstaged, for July 4th the president has declared a series of near-midnight explosions launching across downtown DC in what is expected to be the largest fireworks display in the country’s history, which the National Park Service has warned is likely to cause dangerous levels of pollution and air adulteration in DC’s federal corridor. Prior to this mass contamination event, Trump has promised a long, dreary speech to be delivered to fainting tourists and gonzo aficionados down at the National Mall. The possibility remains that an outraged Mother Nature may step in and rain her nemesis Trump’s parade right out, but locals may find more meaningful contemplation at DC’s MLK Library, where a network of artists are staging a two-day Democracy Festival.
Tipped workers in DC see first base wage increase in two years; Montgomery County minimum wage also increases
As of July 1, the minimum wage in the District of Columbia is now $18.40 — an increase of $0.45 on the hour from 2025. The minimum wage in the District of Columbia is set to progressively increase each year, tethered to inflationary increases. The minimum wage in Montgomery County, which is also pegged to inflation, increased to $18/hr for large employers (51 or more employees), $16.50/hr for mid-size employers (11-50 employees), and $15.95/hr for small employers (10 or fewer employees). The minimum wage in Prince George’s County is $15.30/hr, increasing each Jan. 1.
Workers who are paid the subminimum wage in DC are also seeing their first wage increase in two years, increasing to $10.30/hr — a $0.30 increase. The subminimum wage — which is frequently used to pay workers in the service and hospitality industry — allows an employer to leverage workers’ tipped earnings to subsidize their obligations to pay workers the minimum wage. If an employee’s hourly tipped earnings (averaged weekly) added to the base minimum wage do not equal the District’s full minimum wage, the employer is supposed to be required by law to pay the difference, but wage theft is rampant and systematically unenforceable. Tipped workers in Maryland received no increase in the subminimum wage this year ($4/hr). In PG County, the subminimum wage is $3.63/hr.
DC voters voted to end this bizarre subminimum wage system twice: once in 2018, and again in 2022. The 2022 effort — Initiative 82, which passed with over 74% of the vote — was spurred by a District-wide campaign organized by the Metro DC DSA. Regrettably, only one year of implementation went through — which increased the base wage paid to subminimum wage workers from $7.95/hr to $10/hr. In 2025, against the will of the people, the DC Council voted to freeze the annual wage increase (from $10 to $12), and then in an outrage against democracy and economic justice, liberal Councilmembers Charles Allen and Christina Henderson caved to the demands of the National Restaurant Association by negotiating a repeal of Initiative 82 altogether. I82, which was slowly phasing out DCs subminimum wage system, was suddenly replaced by a nonsensical system that is meant to gradually increase the subminimum wage over the course of a decade until the subminimum wage is pegged at 75% of the normal minimum wage. As a result of Allen and Henderson’s maneuvers, local business modelling has been thrown into chaos as basic expectations around hourly wages have been disrupted.
The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) is a local affiliate of the National Restaurant Association, a right-wing, anti-labor lobby that exists to scare workers against unionizing, fight minimum wage increases, and even tries disrupting child labor protections nationally. Despite the name, RAMW is actually controlled by a network of real-estate lobbyists and corporate restaurateurs who advocate for their capitalist interests. Read more about the National Restaurant Association’s operations in the New Yorker, and read more about RAMW’s positioning against small and local business in the Washington Socialist.
BRIEFS
Socialism 101 Socialist Night School — July 16 at 6:30pm
As democratic socialists continue to build power in the streets, in communities, and in congressional races, corporate media and right-wing reactionaries are once again warning of the specter of socialism. The promise of change to the socio-economic order has enthused the masses — but what is this change exactly? What is socialism? In Metro DC DSA’s next Socialist Night School, attendees will tackle that (very large) question. The session will take place in DC’s MLK Library on Thursday, July 16 at 6:30pm; a virtual component is available. RSVP for the next socialist night school here.
Build worker power across industries — Workers Circle on July 6
On July 6, professionals and restaurant workers alike are coming together to share their experience conducting workplace organizing and building power in the workplace. The Workers Circle — put on by the DC Worker Organizing Center, Federal Unionists Network, Restaurant Organizing Collective of DC (ROC-DC), and the MDC DSA Labor Working Group — creates a space to talk with fellow workers about workplace challenges and develop cross-industry solidarity. Anyone interested in workplace organizing, struggling with their job, or looking to build working-class power are invited to attend. The Circle will take place on July 6 at 6:30pm — RSVP to join the Workers’ Circle here.
Spanish Club for Socialists — July 6, 7, and 8
Spanish Club for Socialists is a group that meets up to practice speaking Spanish. At a time when our Spanish-speaking neighbors are threatened, developing language skills is essential for truly awakening the strength and ambition of the multi-racial working class. The Spanish Club for Socialists has three events planned next week:
- Spanish Club Mt. Pleasant at St. Stephens — Monday, July 6 at 7pm
- Spanish Club Dupont Circle at Patchwork — Tuesday, July 7 at 7:30pm
- Spanish Club Online via Zoom — Tuesday, July 8 at 7pm
TAGGERS NEEDED: Locals angry at rising electricity costs planning mass outreach expedition against corporate utility barons — July 11 at 1pm
We Power DC, Metro DC DSA’s campaign to turn DC’s electrical utility supplier over to public ownership, is planning a postering expedition in DC’s Chinatown on July 11 at 1pm. The expedition is planned to spread the word about the evils of Pepco and inspire the general public to consider a municipally controlled alternative. As rate increases have outraged DC-area locals, We Power DC plans to tap into the latent public distrust of DC’s current corporate utility regime — defined by corruption, soaring prices, and greed. All materials (+ training) will be provided on site — just dress for the weather and bring friends. RSVP for We Power outreach expedition here.
Following the expedition, We Power will be heading over to Rocket Bar for its summer social around 3:30pm. Join for camaraderie and envisioning of a people-powered future in the District.
Metro DC DSA Abolition Working Group planning fundraiser for kids — July 15
Metro DC DSA’s Abolition Working Group is planning to host a July 15 fundraiser at the Dew Drop Inn, with aim to resource the 3rd Annual Kids Not Cops Backpack Giveaway. At last year’s fundraiser, socialists and allies raised over $6,000 to supply over 300 kids with fresh backpacks and school supplies. Abolitionists are aiming to beat their distribution record this year: All are invited to participate in this objective while socializing with comrades. RSVP to the July 15 fundraiser here and consider donating directly to the drive at link.
Curious about DSA? Looking to connect with others? Join the MDC DSA summer new member cohort
Now is an exciting time to get active in Metro DC DSA. Hundreds of people have joined the chapter since Janeese Lewis George and Aparna Raj won their landmark elections in DC last month. DSA is outmaneuvering the billionaires, tax cheats, and landlord class from DC to Colorado. This class war is far from over — but the surge in interest and new members expands potential for the democratic socialists’ long war against the capitalist system.
Anyone new to Metro DC DSA is invited to apply to join the Summer 2026 New Member Community Cohort. The group will meet for three Wednesday night sessions starting July 29 at 6:30pm at the Festival Center in DC (near the Columbia Heights Metro stop). Sessions will cover DSA’s approach to organizing, the socialist analysis of what’s wrong with capitalism and the need to fight for democratic socialism, and how to become an active member in Metro DC’s local DSA chapter. At least one session will be followed by a social hour. Applications are due by July 12. For questions, email member-engagement@mdcdsa.org or write to Jake H on Slack.
INFO ACCESS
Metro DC Democratic Socialists of America, uniting the DMV, is one of a number of big urban DSA chapters — and many more compact but potent ones within the country’s Blue AND Red corridors — that are building a true political Left across the US. All this as Trump, flailing and senile, fumbles first a brain-dead and then a humiliating defeat, and ill-trained ICE paramilitary irregulars layer white-nationalist terrorism atop our everyday capitalist yoke. This is the terrain on which we fight back, gain allies, and, more often every day, win.
- Your first step? Join DSA and fight to build socialism. We’re the alternative that works for people, not profiteers and their captive politicians. Still thinking about it? Be sure to get this Update every Friday in your inbox, member or not.
- Check out the breadth and scope of our Metro DC chapter — DMV branches, working groups, campaigns, current activities, and enduring values — right here. Get the full but concise picture at “Why You Should Join DSA/New Member Orientation” in a virtual version Wednesday, July 15 and in a near double-header the Socialist Night School’s July 16th Socialism 101.
- How is our activism grounded? See the rich archive of our (aforementioned and) acclaimed Socialist Night School. Read the Washington Socialist, published since the 1970s. Watch the latest MDC Dispatch video chronicle on YouTube for more recent mode of coverage. News or urgent action needed? Tell us what your community is hearing and doing at our tip line.
- Already a member? Join our Slack for real-time info on working group and campaign events, strategy/tactic exchange, and inspiration. Email slack@mdcdsa.org with your most recent DSA dues receipt to get access.
DSA CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Monday, July 6
5:30 – 6:15pm | Public Land Working Group
6 – 7pm | Solidarity Committee meeting
7 – 8pm | DC/MoCo Abolition Working Group biweekly meeting
Tuesday, July 7
7 – 9pm | Political Engagement Committee biweekly meeting
Wednesday, July 8
6 – 8pm | DC Electoral Working Group Debrief and Happy Hour
7pm | Repro Justice Campaign meeting
7:30pm | Community Builders all-hands meeting
8 – 9pm | MoCo DSA Comms Team meeting
8 –9:30pm | MoCo Palestine Solidarity Working Group
Thursday, July 9
6:15 – 7:30pm | NoVA Branch General Body Meeting
Friday, July 10
1 – 3pm | Ashburn canvass for public power
10pm – 12am | Distribute Narcan with BAWG @ Metamorphosis Feat. Ve’ondre
Wednesday, July 15
DMV LEFT BULLETIN
Alternative to 4th of July on July 4 | PACA and Palestine House of Freedom
Celebrate Unity in the face of Imperialism. Enjoy food, live music, and shop local vendors at the Palestine House of Freedom from 2 to 7pm. Iyad Burnat is joining as a special guest speaker, all the way from Palestine. More details here.
The People’s Cup Watch Party on July 4 | DC for Palestine and Gaza Champions
On July 4, join DC4P for a watch party at 5pm at Right Proper Kitchen. Tickets are sliding scale and available at door or here. All money raised will go directly to mutual aid in Gaza. There is also an interest form for those that want to host their own People’s Cup Watch Party here.
NoVA Organizer Fair on July 5
On July 5 from 12 to 4pm, join more than 15 organizations across Northern Virginia — including Metro DC DSA’s NoVA branch — for an organizer fair, where attendees can meet activists across the region and learn how to get involved in their various endeavors. The fair takes place at Arlington Central Library, masks required; more information here.
Slow Stitching Our Collective Stories on July 7 | The Festival Center
Join Avantika and others on Tuesday, July 7 from 6 to 8:30pm to create a collective piece of art, connecting stories and dreams through thread. No experience of embroidery or stitching is needed. More info and sign up here.
Local Author Conversation with Be Stedwell on July 10 | Free DC
Join Free DC’s Popular Education working group in conversation with Be Steadwell, local author whose debut novel is Chocolate Chip City. It will be a virtual discussion from 6:30 to 8:30pm on Friday, July 10. Sign up and get more info here.
ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVES
ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVES are articles and opinion pieces of interest to DMV leftists but not, generally, appearing in local media. They should have links without paywalls. Readers are invited to submit candidates at our tip line.
Trump, the Iran Memorandum, and the “World’s Greatest Authority”
The announcement of the US/Iran Memorandum of Understanding allegedly ending the war between Iran and the USA/Israeli axis has brought forth more confusion than I can remember in the aftermath of any crisis. And, how can we even use the word “aftermath” when, shortly after the “signing” of the Memorandum, Israel continued its relentless war against Lebanon, and Iran–as a result–announced another blockade of the Straits of Hormuz! And then, on June 21st, Trump, once again, threatened Iran and specifically threatened to kill the Iranian negotiating team! Z Network
Labor Can’t Be Treated as a Mere Voting Bloc — It Has Power To Reshape Society
It is necessary to put the capital-labor relation back at the center of left politics, says Costas Lapavitsas.
The left in western democracies has been pretty much in free fall since the onset of neoliberal globalization. This is quite ironic since resistance to capitalism from civil society has actually grown during the same period. This resistance is also reflected in the U.S. political landscape, where the Democratic Socialists of America are surging in support through grassroots efforts in major urban areas. Voters are clearly signaling that they are fed up with the establishment wing of the Democratic Party, whose leaders continue serving, above all else, corporate and financial interests and have displayed immense hypocrisy on foreign policy issues. Truthout via Portside
Backlash from centrist Democrats as democratic socialist candidates sweep primaries
Party’s old guard abandons ‘blue no matter what’ banner to push for a more formal break with progressive wing
After a string of Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) primary victories, the loudest response from much of the Democratic establishment’s old guard was not reconciliation, but escalation. Over the last few days, prominent party figures have moved away from unifying under a “blue no matter who” banner to push for a more formal break with their left flank, and said the moment may have arrived for Democrats to confront their more socialist wing. The Guardian
Our AI = unemployment discussion for this week:
The Unstoppable Force of A.I. Hype Is Meeting One Immovable Fact
[There’s] “an essential, inescapable fact about the artificial intelligence that has become so common in so many aspects of our daily lives: Large language models are not reasoning machines. They’re plausibility engines. It’s not just that they don’t test their outputs to make sure they’re correct or logical, or that they fail to do so in certain instances. They can’t, and they’ll never be able to on their own. They can only assess which answers are probable, based on the data on which the models have been trained. And that holds true whether they’re trained on the full breadth of human output or only on peer-reviewed scientific articles. It’s baked into the way they operate.” NYT
“A better world is not possible:” —
The child of fugitive Weather activists recounts his early life and its long-term effect on him. A review.
“The author’s unresolved and irresolvable Freudian psychodrama aside—despite being billed as a kind of a memoir, Ayers Dohrn’s childhood ‘in the revolutionary underground’ mainly haunts the periphery of what is otherwise a very accomplished biography of his parents—Dangerous, Dirty, Violent, and Young arrives just as the specter of political violence (by which we always mean vaguely left-wing political violence) once again haunts American editorial boards. The New York Times frets over ‘what can feel like a scary, chaotic moment.’ The Washington Post bemoans ‘the drumbeat of violence against political figures,’ one it claims ‘has been growing louder for years.’” LA Review of Books via 5 Leftie Links
The flame of thought, the magnificence of art, the wonder of discovery, and the audacity of invention all belong to revolutionary periods when humanity, tired of the chains of its restrictions, shatters them, and stops inebriated to breathe the breeze of a vaster and freer horizon.
–Virgilia D’Andrea
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